Direct air connectivity to Suva remains the highest priority for trans-Tasman commerce, with business leaders warning that economic productivity is being stifled by the lack of direct flights into Suva.
Speaking at the Fiji New Zealand Business Council (FNZBC)-New Zealand Fiji Business Council (NZFBC) 2026 joint conference at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Nadi yesterday, NZFBC president Chandar Sen urged national and regional airlines to re-establish the routes immediately.
“Our highest priority remains opening flights into Suva,” Mr Sen said.
“We must see this happen, and happen quickly,” he added.
Mr Sen challenged airlines, including national carrier Fiji Airways, Air New Zealand and Qantas to respond to commercial demand rather than waiting for ideal airport conditions. He said the business community stood ready to directly fund immediate infrastructure deficits at Nausori Airport if it accelerates the resumption of services.
“Infrastructure improvements at airports are always welcome, but connectivity should not wait for perfection. Airlines will respond where there is sustainable demand. Cargo capacity is a major part of that equation, and New Zealand businesses, alongside our Fijian business partners, we stand ready to support that growth. So if there’s a cold store or a chiller to be built at Nausori Airport, we can do that,we don’t have to go beyond this room.”
Recalling past flight schedules that permitted single-day business trips between the countries and the capital, Mr Sen said direct flights were a necessity for regional trade efficiency, wealth creation, and investment. “Many in this room will remember when we could fly into Suva in the morning, do our business during the day, and return home on the evening flight.
“That is efficiency, that is productivity, that’s what we are after.”
